A Family Christmas Party

On Sunday, December 18, the Worcester Family Church held their annual Christmas service and party. With over 200 people in attendance, there was lots of fun to be had by all.

The day began with the Christmas service. The service was based on the tradition of “lessons and carols”—a service of scripture and song that originated in the late 19th century. Those attending listened to nine scripture lessons telling the story of the fall, a promise of the messiah, and the birth of Jesus. These lessons were interspersed with Christmas carols from around the world: from Japan, the Philippines, and Germany, to name a few.

Rev. and Mrs. Hempowicz gave a beautiful and engaging Christmas message at the service. Welcoming all the children to come sit up front, the Hempowiczs reminded the children and the rest of the audience that just as Jesus’ birth brought hope to the world, we too are the face of hope to God.

After service, the festivities began. There were performers and games. Everyone got into the spirit as teams raced to finish first in the “Human Christmas Tree” decorating contest. While all this was going on, the Worcester Family Church was also raising money for the Women’s Federation for World Peace’s (WFWP) Schools of Africa Project. Between donations and raffle ticket sales, the event ultimately raised $1,260 for the Schools of Africa Project.

And of course, Santa himself showed up at the end of the service to give everyone a warm send-off.

The Worcester Family Church would like to wish all a very merry Christmas and blessed New Year.

If you have a story to share about your community’s celebrations and preparations for Christmas and the New Year, please visit familyfed.org/share-a-story to tell us more!